Stephen Kelly has pulled out of the Republic of Ireland squad for their World Cup qualifier against Sweden on Friday.

The Reading defender has withdrawn from the match due to family reasons, according to the Irish FA.

"Stephen Kelly has withdrawn from the Ireland squad to face Sweden this Friday for family reasons," said the governing body in a statement.

"He has been in touch with the manager, who has given Stephen permission to stay at home on this occasion."

Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni will be without several other key players for the Sweden clash, with Aiden McGeady, Sean St Ledger and Joey O'Brien all unfit.

Written by
Mark Langshaw